All of this, of course, added kindling to the concept of impulse pig purchases and sourcing animals sight unseen online — neither of which is a recommendable practice.

The Teacup Designation

Whether we’re talking about teacup pigs or Pugs, I simply can’t stand the appellation. What’s so compelling about an animal who fits inside a teacup?

Just as with dogs, the word “teacup” purports to describe the size of a pig for marketing purposes alone. It is not a distinct species or breed of pig. It’s just a pig who’s been bred to be smaller than most.

The True Story About Size

Forget what Paris said — 12 pounds is not what these pigs weigh when fully grown. Try 40 or 50, if you’re lucky. Many of these pigs will weigh well over 100 pounds once they reach their maximum poundage — at which point they’re often surrendered to a rescue.